C-reactive protein (CRP) is a key biomarker that plays a crucial role in assessing inflammation within the body. Its high-sensitivity variant, High Sensitive CRP (hsCRP), has gained prominence in recent years due to its ability to detect even low levels of inflammation.
In this blog, we’ll explore the intricacies of CRP and hsCRP, from their functions to the factors influencing their levels, diagnostic methods, and potential treatments.
What is CRP?
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein the liver produces in response to inflammation. It serves as an essential component of the body’s immune response, aiding in the identification and elimination of harmful pathogens. Measuring CRP levels can provide valuable insights into the presence and extent of inflammation within the body.
What Conditions Influence CRP Levels?
Various factors can impact CRP levels, including infections, injuries, autoimmune disorders, and chronic diseases. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, obesity, and poor diet can also contribute to elevated CRP levels. Understanding these influencers is crucial for interpreting CRP results accurately.
Elevated CRP levels can indicate underlying health issues. Infections, inflammatory disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers are among the conditions that can contribute to increased CRP levels. High CRP levels may also signal acute inflammation or tissue damage. Identifying the specific cause of elevated CRP is crucial for appropriate treatment and management.
What Should be the Normal CRP Levels?
Normal CRP levels in a healthy individual are typically less than 10 milligrams per liter (mg/L). However, the optimal range may vary based on factors such as age, gender, and individual health conditions. It’s essential to interpret CRP values in the context of the individual’s overall health and medical history.
Generally, CRP levels are classified as;
- Normal: Under 3 mg/L
- Normal to moderate elavation: 3 to 10 mg/L
- Whole-body inflammation: 10 to 100 mg/L
- Marked whole-body inflammation: Over 100 mg/L
- Sever whole-body inflammation: Over 500 mg/L
What is hsCRP?
High-Sensitive CRP (hs-CRP) is a more sensitive test that can detect lower levels of inflammation. It is particularly useful in assessing cardiovascular risk, as even minor inflammation within blood vessels can indicate potential heart issues. HsCRP is measured in smaller increments, allowing for a more precise evaluation of inflammation. The results of the hs-CRP test are classified as follows to offer a sense of one’s risk of a heart attack or stroke:
- Low risk: Lower than 1.0 mg/L
- Average risk: 1.0 and 3.0 mg/L
- High risk: Above 3.0 mg/L
When Would You Need a C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test?
CRP alone does not cause symptoms; instead, it is an indicator of an underlying issue. Symptoms typically arise from the condition or disease that is causing the inflammation. Here are some general symptoms that your healthcare provider may order a CRP test.
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Pain and Swelling
- Shortness of Breath
- Chest Pain
- Digestive Issues
- Skin Changes
- Muscle Aches
It’s crucial to note that elevated CRP levels are not specific to a particular disease and can indicate a range of inflammatory processes. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms or have concerns about your CRP levels, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can conduct further tests, such as imaging or specific blood tests, to identify the underlying cause of the inflammation and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Diagnosis Methods:
CRP and hs-CRP levels can be measured through a simple blood test. The results, along with other clinical and diagnostic information, help healthcare professionals evaluate the presence and severity of inflammation. This aids in forming a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s overall health.
Treatment Methods:
Addressing elevated CRP levels often involves treating the underlying cause of inflammation. This may include antibiotics for infections, anti-inflammatory medications for autoimmune disorders, and lifestyle modifications to manage chronic conditions. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise, can also contribute to reducing inflammation.
How to Use hsCRP / CRP Rapid Test Kit (FIA)
Test Preparation:
Before initiating the test, thoroughly read the product’s instruction manual and the operation manual of the immunofluorescence analyzer. Ensure that the reagent is restored to room temperature to prevent any impact on the accuracy of the results.
1. Instrument Preparation:
a. Turn on the immunofluorescence analyzer and select the desired test mode (quick test/standard test).
b. Read the reagent ID chip and choose the sample type and test items as per the specific instrument’s operating instructions.
2. Reagent Preparation:
a. Balance the reagent or sample to room temperature.
b. Tear open the aluminum foil pouch and place the test card on a flat operating table.
c. Optionally use a clean point or whole blood sampler to penetrate the sealing film of the sample diluent tube before sampling.
3. Sampling:
a. Using a pipette, collect 5μL of serum, plasma, or whole blood sample. Ensure careful handling to avoid air bubbles.
b. For fingerstick whole blood sampling, use a clean point or whole blood sampler.
4. Mixing:
a. Add the collected samples to the sample diluent and thoroughly mix for 60 seconds.
5. Sample Addition:
a. Use a pipette to absorb 100μL of mixed samples and add them to the sample well of the test card.
b. Alternatively, invert the whole blood sampler, pre-drop the first two drops to ensure no air, then vertically drop three drops into the sample well of the test card.
6. Detection:
a. For standard tests, insert the test card into the instrument after adding the sample. The instrument will automatically time the reaction and detect the results after a 3-minute countdown.
b. For quick tests, after adding the samples, insert the test card into the instrument after 3 minutes of timing. The instrument will automatically test the card, record, read, and print the results.
c. If the test card is not tested within the 3-minute countdown, consider it invalid, and the sample should be re-tested with a new test card.
The Most Effective and Commonly Used Test Kits for Detection of CRP and hs-CRP
The CRP Rapid Test Kit (FIA), utilizing an immunofluorescent assay, offers an innovative solution for the in vitro quantitative detection of C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations in human serum, plasma, and whole blood samples. With its Android system integration, adaptable user interface, and the ability to provide all-inclusive results through a printer, the kit streamlines the diagnostic process. Notably, it allows for the screening of past results, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of patients’ inflammatory status over time.
The standout feature is its high-speed results, delivering automated and objective outcomes in just 15 minutes. Overall, the CRP Rapid Test Kit proves to be a cutting-edge and user-friendly tool, enhancing the diagnostic capabilities of healthcare professionals and enabling prompt and informed medical interventions for patients with inflammatory conditions.
The hsCRP / CRP Rapid Test Kit (FIA) is a cutting-edge solution designed for the swift and comprehensive in vitro quantitative detection of both C-reactive protein (CRP) and hypersensitive CRP (hsCRP) concentrations in human serum, plasma, and whole blood samples. Employing an immunofluorescent assay, this automated system delivers objective results in an impressive 3-minute timeframe.
Key features include its role as an assistant means of identifying cardiovascular disease risk, an extensive results printing capability, seamless reconnection with previous results, an Android-based interface for user-friendly operation, unwavering reliability, and a breakneck speed of delivering results. This kit is a valuable tool for healthcare professionals, providing rapid and precise assessments to facilitate swift and informed medical interventions in various clinical settings.
REFERENCES
- professional, C. C. medical. (n.d.). C-Reactive Protein (CRP) test: What it is, Purpose & Results. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/23056-c-reactive-protein-crp-test
- Healthdirect Australia. (n.d.). Reactive protein (CRP) blood test. C. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/c-reactive-protein-CRP-blood-test
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, December 22). C-Reactive Protein Test. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/c-reactive-protein-test/about/pac-20385228
- S. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). C-Reactive Protein (CRP) test: MedlinePlus medical test. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/c-reactive-protein-crp-test/
- Eustice, C. (2023, May 12). What is a C-reactive protein test used for? Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-the-c-reactive-protein-crp-test-188021
- Cozlea DL, Farcas DM, Nagy A, et al. The impact of C reactive protein on global cardiovascular risk on patients with coronary artery disease. Curr Health Sci J. 2013;39(4):225-231.
